As an executive mum, you’re no stranger to long days packed with meetings, deadlines, and the constant demands of motherhood. When you finally feel that twinge in your lower back or that nagging pain in your neck, the most natural response is often to lie down or take a break. After all, you’re already running on fumes, and rest seems like the logical remedy for any discomfort. But here’s a surprising twist: too much rest might actually be making your pain worse instead of better. Lets explore more in this blog.
Rest is vital to recovery from spinal and nerve pain. However excessive resting can aggravate pain. Some of the ways it does so are given here:
Decreased Muscle Support: Your muscles act as the scaffolding that keeps your spine and joints in proper alignment. When you spend extended periods lying down or avoiding movement, those support muscles weaken. As a result, they can no longer adequately stabilise your spine or joints, leading to increased strain and discomfort.
Reduced Blood Flow and Oxygen: Movement is essential for maintaining healthy circulation. When you stay in a sedentary position for too long' like spending your entire weekend on the couch, blood flow slows and the tissues that need oxygen and nutrients don’t get what they require. This can prolong inflammation and exacerbate pain.
Loss of Flexibility and Joint Mobility: Stiffness often sets in after a night’s sleep or hours of sitting. If you respond by lying down more, your joints miss out on the movement needed to stay lubricated and flexible. Over time, this can lead to even greater stiffness and discomfort, especially in the back, neck, and hips.
Watch this video to learn Beat the Afternoon Energy Slump At Work: Movement Breaks for Executive Mums
Here are some tips on how to gently introduce movement into your daily routine:
Strengthening Core and Postural Muscles: Targeted exercises that engage your core and support good posture (like planks, bridges, or modified squats) ensure your spine is well-aligned, reducing unnecessary stress on your back and neck.
Mindful Movement Prevents Overuse: If you’re dealing with neck pain or back pain, continuing to move in a controlled, low-impact manner helps you avoid compensations that can worsen pain or create new issues in other areas.
Gentle Movement Reduces Inflammation: Activities like light stretching, walking, or desk-based exercises help flush out inflammation and improve circulation. Even short 5-minute breaks during your workday can make a big difference in how you feel.
HERE is a free video guide on "Quick and Easy Desk Based Exercises to avoid spinal & joint pain". These are simple and easy exercises that can be done in under 2-3 minutes while sitting at your desk at work or from the comfort of your home.
If you’ve been relying on extended rest to manage pain, it’s time to rethink your approach. Incorporating gentle, consistent movement and focusing on posture can help you bounce back faster and feel more energised. Start embracing active recovery today and discover how a little movement can go a long way in improving both your comfort and productivity. You deserve to feel strong, capable, and ready to tackle whatever life throws your way.
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